Born to Compete
Growing up in a family of athletes, Bo’s path toward wrestling excellence seemed almost predetermined.
“It was just kind of a natural introduction into wrestling and other sports,” Bo says of his family legacy — his father and grandfather were coaches. “It was always in my blood and my DNA to compete.”
Even though wrestling is an individual sport, teamwork has always been important to Bo. While Bo values the NCAA titles and the prestigious Dan Hodge Trophy he’s earned, he’s proudest of the collective achievements he shared with his teammates.
“The accomplishment that means the most to me isn’t just mine, but being on four NCAA championship teams and having gone undefeated as a team throughout my entire college career,” Bo says.
After his collegiate wrestling career at Penn State, Bo moved to MMA and joined the UFC. He’s built a professional record of 7-1, with most victories by submission or knockout. His wrestling background serves him well in the octagon, where he averages over three takedowns per fight.
Mastering the Mental Game
Bo’s journey hasn’t been without challenges.
“The toughest challenge in my career has been adjusting my focus from result-oriented to becoming more process-oriented,” Bo says. “As a kid, I had a lot of success, and I started to define myself and my self-worth based on my successes and failures. It takes a lot of the purity and love of the sport away.”
This mindset shift helps Bo in competition and in his daily life. He still works on this balance, focusing on enjoying the process rather than fixating on outcomes.
Finding Peace in the Mountains
Born in Colorado and raised in Texas, Bo’s early connection to the outdoors still grounds him today.
“I feel really connected to nature and the mountains,” Bo says. “I can enjoy the peace, the quietness, and the slower pace. That’s [...] really good for my mental state and myself.”
Living in Pennsylvania now, he still feels connected to Colorado’s natural features whenever he returns. With his busy schedule of training and travel, returning to the mountains helps Bo slow down and recharge.
The Call of the Hunt
Bo prefers hunting elk in the rut using his bow and the spot-and-stalk method. He appreciates the patience, observation, and precision required to succeed in the field.
“There’s a lot of action, but at the same time, there’s opportunity to just sit and be quiet and enjoy nature,” Bo says of the hunt. “You have a lot of time, but when things start happening, they happen very fast, and you have to be dialed in.”
Raising Champions
Today, Bo’s life centers around his growing family. He and his wife have a one-and-a-half-year-old son and another child on the way.
“Spending time with my wife and my son really helps put things into perspective,” Bo says. “I get to have peace of mind when I spend time with them. That refreshes me and motivates me when I get back to training and competing.”
When asked about the principles he hopes to instill in his children, Bo says, “The most important thing I want my kids to know is that I love them unconditionally, [and] the only thing you can control is your effort and your attitude.”
Joining the MKC Ambassador Family
Bo’s partnership with Montana Knife Company began after meeting founder Josh Smith through connections in the MMA space. What started as participation in a charity shooting event developed into a strong relationship based on mutual values.
“I would say the original reason that I wanted to partner with MKC was just getting to know Josh and understanding his mindset, his philosophy,” Bo explains. “I want to surround myself with the best people I can. I love how he’s really grown the business and how he runs it.”
When it comes to MKC products, Bo’s preference is the Speedgoat. “It’s super versatile. I carry it with me on all my hunting trips and […] on a daily basis. It’s just a staple. Everyone should have one.”
Like the knives he carries, Bo’s versatility, reliability, and commitment to excellence make him a perfect addition to the MKC family.
To keep up with Bo’s journey, follow him on:
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Instagram: @nobickal1
YouTube: @nobickal1
